A former MP has been named as the Conservative party’s candidate for Cambridgeshire police commissioner.

Sir Graham Bright saw off two rivals during a hustings session after John Pye, previously the Tory choice for the role, opted to stand down.

The 70-year-old, who was MP for Luton up until 1997 and also acted as private secretary to John Major, defeated former Cambridgeshire County Council leader Shona Johnstone and county councillor Daren Tysoe to the nomination.

The fight for the £70,000 a year police commissioner role will be contested in November.

On his personal website, Sir Graham said: “I have enormous experience in public service and have represented people’s views and aspirations and addressed their fears and concerns. This is the essence of the role.”

He added: “Whether in politics, business, or voluntary organisations, I am always ready to speak up for what is right. If there is an injustice I will take it to the very top.”